Xerophytes are plants that have adapted to live in the dry, hot conditions of the desert. These plants have a waxy outer coating to help the plant retain moisture, alongside other adaption of their seeds, roots and leaves to help them prosper and retain moisture for prolonged periods until water is readily available.
Root Systems
The root systems of desert plants are adapted and extensive to survive in dry conditions. Many plants have origins system that are able to come to the surface to absorb any available rainfall which also extend deep into the ground to seek out and absorb water underground. Cactuses have shallow root systems, but the origins also spread broadly to allow it to absorb any rain as soon as it’s available.
Leaves and Seeds
Like the root processes, the seeds and leaves of desert plants are adapted for the dry atmosphere. The seeds of desert plants are adapted to stay dormant for long period in the desert dirt until there is enough moisture to sprout and develop. The fleshy leaves of desert plants store water, while some desert plants book moisture from having few or no leaves. Many plants have also spines that assist the plant gather moisture, provide shade and protect the plant.
Cactuses
Cactuses are xerophytes, meaning they are adapted to the desert states. These crops vary in size and typically do not have any leaves or branches. Cactuses usually have spines that vary from small hairlike projections to big spikes. Xerophytes, such as cactuses, grow efficiently indoors and outside in different climates when their demands are satisfied.
Succulents
Succulents are also xerophytes. These plants store water in their thick roots, stems and leaves. There are various types of succulents, like euphorbias (Euphorbia spp.) And alive stones (Lithops spp.) . Several euphorbias have spiny stems that lead some to confuse them with cactuses, but it is possible to distinguish euphorbia plants from other succulents and cactuses from the plants’ milky sap as well as the unusual flower structures. Living stones are a kind of succulent that appear to function as stones, which is a means to protect themselves from grazing animals. They have two succulent leaves that are exactly the same shade as stones and dirt, so they are easily camouflaged among the rocks on desert ground. Like cactuses, it is possible to develop succulents as houseplants, or outdoors at the ideal conditions.